The Sonoran Desert, with its harsh sun and extreme temperatures, is no place for the faint of heart. Yet, nestled within this unforgiving landscape in Phoenix, Arizona, stands HAUS5, a striking example of architectural excellence, where modern design meets natural beauty and sustainable living. Crafted by architect Richard Doria and K2 Signature Homes, HAUS5 is a testament to the power of thoughtful design – and the durability of resilient materials.
At the heart of HAUS5’s design is the masterful use of Thermory Benchmark Ash cladding, that not only enhances the home’s aesthetic appeal but ensures that it can withstand the desert’s harsh climate. Tom Knutson, K2 Signature Homes Co-Founder, emphasizes the role of Thermory in creating a seamless balance between durability and beauty.
A Nod To Architectural Heritage.
HAUS5’s location in the Alta Vista Park community—an area renowned for its Frank Lloyd Wright originals and other mid-century modern gems—further elevates the project. The design of HAUS5 strikes a careful balance between honoring the community’s architectural heritage and embracing the future with innovative, ecological materials and design practices.
As Tom Knutson, K2 Signature Homes Co-Founder puts it:
“HAUS5’s location required a careful balance of innovation and tradition. Its modern courtyard layout and material choices pay homage to the architectural heritage of the Alta Vista Park community while pushing boundaries with sustainable, forward-thinking solutions.”
Sustainability and Innovation Meet In The Heat.
One of the standout features of HAUS5 is its commitment to sustainable design. Completed in 2020, the project seamlessly integrates Thermory, highlighting a perfect balance between luxury and environmental responsibility. Thermory’s eco-friendly production process not only ensures durability in the harsh desert climate but also significantly reduces the carbon footprint, aligning perfectly with the project’s commitment to sustainability.
Knutson states, “Thermory’s thermal modification process allows us to use a sustainable, chemical-free material that performs beautifully in desert conditions. This aligns with the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship, delivering high-end design with a reduced carbon footprint.”
Designers were focused on creating a harmonious relationship between the home and its environment, and they succeeded beautifully. The rich, earthy tones of the wood juxtapose with the clean white stucco and glass, grounding the home’s sleek modern lines in the warmth of nature. The continuous wood grain draws the eye upward, unifying the indoor and outdoor spaces in a way that feels both inviting and elevated.
A Timeless, Yet Modern Design.
HAUS5 stands as a prime example of how contemporary design can respect its surroundings while pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation. Designed with careful attention to scale and proportion, the 4,000 square-foot home offers a “just right” size, that fosters a sense of calm and sophistication. Architect Richard Doria’s vision strikes an ideal balance between luxury and modesty, incorporating both sleek modern lines and natural materials.
“Every inch of the home is thoughtfully designed to create a timeless feel, blending sleek lines with natural elements that harmonize with its surroundings. HAUS5 contributes to the architectural legacy of the Alta Vista Park community, paying homage to the icons of design that have shaped the area, while also bringing something new to the table.”
“In a climate as unforgiving as the Sonoran Desert, Thermory wood proves its worth. Our extensive experience with this material ensures that even under extreme heat, it performs exceptionally well, offering long-lasting durability and aesthetic richness. The cladding and ceiling treatments provide warmth without compromising the home’s clean, modern lines.” – Tom Knutson
The home’s layout reflects the principles of Biophilic Design beautifully. The courtyard, for example, acts as a key focal point, ensuring that the home remains connected to its natural desert surroundings. This seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces helps foster a serene, grounded atmosphere that is integral to the home’s overall sense of peace and tranquility.
With Thoughtful Design, Thermory Endures
In a place like the Sonoran Desert where conditions are extreme, the choice of materials like Thermory makes all the difference. As the project team of Richard Doria and K2 Signature Homes proves, with the right materials, you can create not just a house, but a lasting, living work of architecture that thrives within its environment.
“Thermory adds an organic, tactile element that enriches HAUS5, creating a warm, inviting environment rooted in nature’s elegance. It’s a material that ages beautifully over time, developing a patina that only adds to its character and charm”, Knutson adds.
HAUS5 is more than just a home—it’s a testament to the enduring beauty that comes from thoughtful design and the use of sustainable, high-performance materials like Thermory. By blending modern aesthetics with natural materials and sustainability, HAUS5 represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture that will continue to stand the test of time. We’re proud to be a part of this remarkable project!
Image Credits: Jason Roehner.
